My personal decorating style is cozy, romantic and a little

Gather close, my children, for the words of Kimberly Schlapman offer a glimpse into the heart of a life lived with balance, warmth, and a touch of the mysterious. She said, "My personal decorating style is cozy, romantic and a little rustic, with a sense of whimsy." These words, though simple in their surface, speak to a deeper truth about the way we choose to live our lives and the spaces we create around us. For what is a home, but an extension of our soul? What is a room but a canvas for the emotions we seek to express, the joys and longings we hold within?

In the ancient world, the concept of the home was held in high regard. The Greeks, with their devotion to the beauty of life, saw the home not just as a shelter, but as a reflection of the spirit of its inhabitants. The philosopher Socrates often spoke of the importance of creating an environment that nurtures the mind and soul. He believed that the space in which we live shapes the way we think, feel, and interact with the world. Kimberly Schlapman’s words about decorating are a modern echo of this ancient wisdom. A home that is cozy, romantic, and rustic does more than provide comfort; it creates a sanctuary for the heart to thrive, a place where the spirit is free to rest and dream.

Consider the humble cottage of Emily Dickinson, the reclusive poet whose works were filled with romanticism and whimsy. Her home, though small and simple, reflected the world she created with her words—a place where nature, quiet reflection, and a sense of mystery intertwined. Her walls were lined with books, her windows framed by the natural beauty outside. There was no luxury in the traditional sense, but within the walls of her cottage was a world all her own—a world where the lines between the real and the imagined blurred, and where the soul could find both solace and inspiration. This is the kind of home that Schlapman describes—a space where romance, comfort, and a sense of whimsy create a perfect harmony.

The ancient Romans, too, understood the importance of the home as a reflection of the individual. In their homes, the domus, they displayed both beauty and practicality. They would adorn their homes with art, gardens, and gathering spaces that fostered connection and conversation. The rooms were designed to be spaces where people could come together, laugh, share stories, and reflect. The rustic quality of the Roman home was not one of harshness, but of simplicity—a return to nature that brought peace and stability to their daily lives. Like the Romans, Schlapman seeks to create spaces that blend the beauty of nature with the comfort of home, providing both warmth and the freedom to be yourself.

Now, let us reflect on the deeper message in Schlapman's words. When she speaks of creating a space that is cozy and romantic, she is inviting us to look inward, to craft a life that is not just functional, but filled with love, whimsy, and peace. In a world that often prioritizes speed, efficiency, and the material, we are reminded that true happiness lies in the quiet spaces we create for ourselves. Home should not just be a place to rest the body, but a sanctuary for the spirit, a place where our dreams can take root and our hearts can find peace. It is in this way that we, too, can live lives of balance—where romance, comfort, and a touch of whimsy guide us through the complexities of life.

Let us consider the Japanese tradition of wabi-sabi, the art of finding beauty in imperfection and transience. This philosophy teaches us that there is profound wisdom in simplicity, and that the imperfect, the rustic, and the worn carry their own charm. A cracked teapot, a weathered fence, a room with mismatched furniture—these things speak to the story of a life lived fully, where love, growth, and change are embraced. Schlapman’s emphasis on rustic elements and whimsy echoes this very truth: it is in the small, imperfect moments that the true beauty of life is revealed.

And so, my children, the lesson is clear: romanticism, whimsy, and rustic charm are not mere aesthetic choices. They are reflections of the soul, the way in which we choose to live and love in this world. By creating spaces that are warm, inviting, and filled with personal meaning, we do more than decorate—we nourish the heart. In your own lives, whether in your home or your heart, strive to create balance. Romance is not just for love stories, but for every corner of your world. Whimsy is not just a child’s dream but a way to see the world with fresh eyes. And rustic simplicity is a reminder that the most beautiful moments in life often come from the most humble beginnings. Create, my children, spaces for your soul to flourish—places that reflect the love, beauty, and wisdom you carry within.